Metchosin couple banned from owning dogs for five years following SPCA investigation

July 15, 2014

A Metchosin couple has been banned from owning dogs for five years after pleading guilty of animal cruelty. In January, Dave and Beverly Bickerdike were charged under both the Criminal Code of Canada and the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act after SPCA animal protection officers responded to complaints that animals in the couple’s care were being neglected. The SPCA has responded to several complaints involving animals owned by the family in the past.

The Bickerdikes were also banned from owning other types of animals for two years and must pay $500 in fines as well as restitution to the SPCA for costs incurred in caring for the animals.

During the investigation the SPCA discovered a German shepherd (Shiva) two poodles (Chompers and Mr. Tibbs) and a brown tabby cat (Bubba) in distress on the Bickerdike’s property.

The health of one of the poodles, Mr. Tibbs, deteriorated rapidly despite intervention and he had to be humanely euthanized on the advice of a veterinarian. The remaining three animals were cared for at the Victoria SPCA, where they received veterinary care and were adopted into new loving homes.

Photo by Unleashed Pet Potraits

The British Columbia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals is a not-for-profit organization reliant on public donations. Our mission is to protect and enhance the quality of life for domestic, farm and wild animals in B.C.